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I Did Something Bad
In this smart and swoony adventure rom-com, a journalist and a movie star find themselves teaming up to cover up a murder...and falling for each other in the process.
When freelance journalist Khin Haymar is assigned by Vogue to get a scoop on Tyler Tun, Hollywood’s hottest movie, she's determined to succeed. Tyler has returned home to Myanmar to shoot his latest film, and if Khin’s able to get an exclusive, there may well be a permanent position waiting for her at Vogue Singapore.
Tyler has a very private life and doesn’t show any sign of letting down his walls for Khin. But then one night on set, a man follows Khin into the park. When he threatens her, Tyler steps in and things escalate fast. Khin knows they can’t go to the police, even if this was self defense, and even if this stranger seems to have targeted her specifically.
As Khin and Tyler work together to hide their secret and find out more about her attacker, they grow closer and Tyler finally starts opening up. But now the idea of writing the article gives Khin an uncomfortable morality-related guilt. Before long, everything hangs in the balance. Will they get away with murder? Can Khin get the exposé she needs for her dream job? And is she willing to risk Tyler’s trust in the process?
When freelance journalist Khin Haymar is assigned by Vogue to get a scoop on Tyler Tun, Hollywood’s hottest movie, she's determined to succeed. Tyler has returned home to Myanmar to shoot his latest film, and if Khin’s able to get an exclusive, there may well be a permanent position waiting for her at Vogue Singapore.
Tyler has a very private life and doesn’t show any sign of letting down his walls for Khin. But then one night on set, a man follows Khin into the park. When he threatens her, Tyler steps in and things escalate fast. Khin knows they can’t go to the police, even if this was self defense, and even if this stranger seems to have targeted her specifically.
As Khin and Tyler work together to hide their secret and find out more about her attacker, they grow closer and Tyler finally starts opening up. But now the idea of writing the article gives Khin an uncomfortable morality-related guilt. Before long, everything hangs in the balance. Will they get away with murder? Can Khin get the exposé she needs for her dream job? And is she willing to risk Tyler’s trust in the process?
327 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 8, 2024
80 people are currently reading
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 507 reviews
February 4, 2025
� 3 stars �
What to Expect:
� Actor x Journalist
� Writing an Article for Vogue
� Healing after Divorce (Her)
� Covering Up a Murder
� Solving a Mystery
� Will They/Won’t They
� Movie Set
� Closed Door Romance
� First Person POV
I expected this to be a little more fast paced and exciting. After the murder occurs, almost every scene was just them lying to cover up what happened and all the emotional turmoil that came with that. I really liked the FMC at the beginning of the book, but her character became less appealing to me as the story progressed. I was particularly turned off by some of the lies she chose to tell in order to win his trust. The MMC was an A-List actor that was so down to earth and kind that it made her betrayal feel extra sleazy, especially when you learn of his motivations. He pretty much carried this book for me. As I’ve mentioned, the mystery/thriller genre isn’t one I typically reach for, but there was enough romance in this one to get me through. I don’t want to share too many details and spoil the story, but this was a decent enough read if you’re thinking of picking it up. Nothing ground breaking but at the very least an easy read with a unique setting (Myanmar).
✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ �
Pre-read: I don’t often read mystery/thrillers, but since I received this from Afterlight as the December book pick, I figured I’d give this a whirl! Hope it’s decent! 🤞🏻
What to Expect:
� Actor x Journalist
� Writing an Article for Vogue
� Healing after Divorce (Her)
� Covering Up a Murder
� Solving a Mystery
� Will They/Won’t They
� Movie Set
� Closed Door Romance
� First Person POV
I expected this to be a little more fast paced and exciting. After the murder occurs, almost every scene was just them lying to cover up what happened and all the emotional turmoil that came with that. I really liked the FMC at the beginning of the book, but her character became less appealing to me as the story progressed. I was particularly turned off by some of the lies she chose to tell in order to win his trust. The MMC was an A-List actor that was so down to earth and kind that it made her betrayal feel extra sleazy, especially when you learn of his motivations. He pretty much carried this book for me. As I’ve mentioned, the mystery/thriller genre isn’t one I typically reach for, but there was enough romance in this one to get me through. I don’t want to share too many details and spoil the story, but this was a decent enough read if you’re thinking of picking it up. Nothing ground breaking but at the very least an easy read with a unique setting (Myanmar).
✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ �
Pre-read: I don’t often read mystery/thrillers, but since I received this from Afterlight as the December book pick, I figured I’d give this a whirl! Hope it’s decent! 🤞🏻
June 17, 2024
**SPOILERS BELOW**
I'm sad to say it, but this debut just didn't work for me. I had requested the ARC because I really enjoy reading romances with a side of adventure. In order to explain my issues with this book, I am going to have to get a bit spoilery. You have been warned.
This book follows Khin Hlaing, a journalist who has been tasked with interviewing Tyler Tun, an A-list actor who has come to Myanmar to shoot his newest movie. Tyler is notoriously private, but he has allowed Khin to interview him for the entire duration of the month-long shoot. What makes this different from a standard romance is that Khin is harassed by a strange man on the film set, she defends herself, and he ends up dying, at which point, Tyler and Khin decide to cover up the crime.
Okay.
My biggest problem with this book was definitely the tone, which did not mesh AT ALL with the serious nature of the story. It had a very jokey and jaunty tone to it, and there were quite a few jokes made about the guy's murder that didn't land well in my opinion. For example, Tyler tells Khin something about his private life and Khin responds with something like, "well at least you didn't kill someone." The jokey vibe the book had did not fit with the seriousness of the situation the characters were in.
This book reminds me of those songs that have a fast, peppy and catchy beat, but if you listen to the lyrics, they're actually really depressing (such as "Last Kiss" (quite possibly the saddest song ever) by J Frank Wilson or "It Ain't Me" by Selena Gomez). I found all the jokes and the lighthearted tone very off-putting when Khin literally thinks she killed someone.
I also had trouble suspending my disbelief in regards to the romance. Tyler was pretty unrealistic and while the book does explain why he feels so close to Khin, he's still a celebrity and she's a journalist reporting on him. His offense at the end when he comes across her whiteboard with notes about the interview seemed ridiculous.
I really didn't like the ending at all. How convenient! OF COURSE the guy wasn't actually murdered; he had a heart attack! And he wasn't a good person anyway, so who cares that he was killed??? And the ex girlfriend took credit for the pen attack, so Khin was off the hook for that too! Ugh.
I was excited for this one; unfortunately, it didn't work for me.
I'm sad to say it, but this debut just didn't work for me. I had requested the ARC because I really enjoy reading romances with a side of adventure. In order to explain my issues with this book, I am going to have to get a bit spoilery. You have been warned.
This book follows Khin Hlaing, a journalist who has been tasked with interviewing Tyler Tun, an A-list actor who has come to Myanmar to shoot his newest movie. Tyler is notoriously private, but he has allowed Khin to interview him for the entire duration of the month-long shoot. What makes this different from a standard romance is that Khin is harassed by a strange man on the film set, she defends herself, and he ends up dying, at which point, Tyler and Khin decide to cover up the crime.
Okay.
My biggest problem with this book was definitely the tone, which did not mesh AT ALL with the serious nature of the story. It had a very jokey and jaunty tone to it, and there were quite a few jokes made about the guy's murder that didn't land well in my opinion. For example, Tyler tells Khin something about his private life and Khin responds with something like, "well at least you didn't kill someone." The jokey vibe the book had did not fit with the seriousness of the situation the characters were in.
This book reminds me of those songs that have a fast, peppy and catchy beat, but if you listen to the lyrics, they're actually really depressing (such as "Last Kiss" (quite possibly the saddest song ever) by J Frank Wilson or "It Ain't Me" by Selena Gomez). I found all the jokes and the lighthearted tone very off-putting when Khin literally thinks she killed someone.
I also had trouble suspending my disbelief in regards to the romance. Tyler was pretty unrealistic and while the book does explain why he feels so close to Khin, he's still a celebrity and she's a journalist reporting on him. His offense at the end when he comes across her whiteboard with notes about the interview seemed ridiculous.
I really didn't like the ending at all. How convenient! OF COURSE the guy wasn't actually murdered; he had a heart attack! And he wasn't a good person anyway, so who cares that he was killed??? And the ex girlfriend took credit for the pen attack, so Khin was off the hook for that too! Ugh.
I was excited for this one; unfortunately, it didn't work for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 9, 2024
Khin and Tyler: she’s a journalist writing about a movie star, he’s the movie star. Imagine their shock when they suddenly have to cover up a murder.
Khin is recently divorced, and not looking for love. Tyler is used to keeping his guard up due to being a celebrity - it was so charming reading about these two falling in love.
I really felt Tyler and Khin’s connection, and their story was emotional yet hopeful.
If you’re looking for a slow burn romance filled with tension, look no further - this is the book for you.
Khin is recently divorced, and not looking for love. Tyler is used to keeping his guard up due to being a celebrity - it was so charming reading about these two falling in love.
I really felt Tyler and Khin’s connection, and their story was emotional yet hopeful.
If you’re looking for a slow burn romance filled with tension, look no further - this is the book for you.
January 30, 2025
I'm so happy to read more books by authors from Southeast Asia. I've never read anything by an author from Myanmar. I hope to discover more.
If you like FINLAY DONOVAN, but want something a bit more diverse, this is for you. Khin is a freelance journalist assigned by Vogue to do a scoop on actor Tyler Tun, Hollywood's hottest movie star. He's slated to be the next Bond. Sparks fly, but not before there's a murder.
Sometimes the amateur sleuthing thing works for me. Sometimes it doesn't. It does here. This is set in Yangon, and has a cast of multicultural characters, which I love.
The author's latest was the last I checked. I obviously requested a copy. Stay tuned for my review.
🎧 Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio
If you like FINLAY DONOVAN, but want something a bit more diverse, this is for you. Khin is a freelance journalist assigned by Vogue to do a scoop on actor Tyler Tun, Hollywood's hottest movie star. He's slated to be the next Bond. Sparks fly, but not before there's a murder.
Sometimes the amateur sleuthing thing works for me. Sometimes it doesn't. It does here. This is set in Yangon, and has a cast of multicultural characters, which I love.
The author's latest was the last I checked. I obviously requested a copy. Stay tuned for my review.
🎧 Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio
March 16, 2025
3.5 Stars
While there are parts of this that require you to suspend disbelief, is so much more than just a romance with a hint of suspense. I would argue this is more about friendships, focusing on trust and belief, finding oneself, and even a bit of social justice issues.
Taking place in Myanmar, Khin is a journalist on the cusp of huge career move if she can get the scoop on international movie star Tyler Tun. What begins as a professional agreement to spend time together quickly escalates to a friendship with hints of more after Khin accidentally kills a man in self-defense. Khin and Tyler decide not to come forward with this information (for reasons explained) and while this becomes the underlying plot, the highlights of the story are really about how their friendship grows from their connection on social issues and their relationship with their friends.
I enjoyed getting to know the culture of Myanmar as I knew little outside of the civil unrest and armed conflict.
I received an advanced copy through Netgalley in return for an honest review.
While there are parts of this that require you to suspend disbelief, is so much more than just a romance with a hint of suspense. I would argue this is more about friendships, focusing on trust and belief, finding oneself, and even a bit of social justice issues.
Taking place in Myanmar, Khin is a journalist on the cusp of huge career move if she can get the scoop on international movie star Tyler Tun. What begins as a professional agreement to spend time together quickly escalates to a friendship with hints of more after Khin accidentally kills a man in self-defense. Khin and Tyler decide not to come forward with this information (for reasons explained) and while this becomes the underlying plot, the highlights of the story are really about how their friendship grows from their connection on social issues and their relationship with their friends.
I enjoyed getting to know the culture of Myanmar as I knew little outside of the civil unrest and armed conflict.
I received an advanced copy through Netgalley in return for an honest review.
October 25, 2024
Started around 4 stars, stumbled into 3, and then finished at 2 Stars. It unfortunately just went downhill. Tyler wasn’t believable as an A-list celeb, the romance was rushed and lacking sparks, the thought processes driving the suspense were annoying, and the third act conflict made no sense. Suddenly everyone is shocked that Khin is a journalist? And I despise when the wrong person is made to apologize.
I loved the audiobook narrator though, her voices, tones, inflections, were so good. I probably would have quit the book if it weren’t for her excellent delivery carrying me through.
* I received a free audiobook from the publisher
I loved the audiobook narrator though, her voices, tones, inflections, were so good. I probably would have quit the book if it weren’t for her excellent delivery carrying me through.
* I received a free audiobook from the publisher
January 17, 2025
Lately, I've been discovering these romcoms with a murder/mystery twist as a new favourite genre, they're so much fun! I really enjoyed my time with this one as well. I would say this one is a little more romance-heavy than mystery-heavy, because it's not super suspenseful, but it does go all in on the romance in terms of emotional depth. I honestly really appreciated that. For instance, this is one of those rare books where the third act conflict actually serves a clear purpose and makes sense in the story, and it made me pretty emotional to read. But although I have mentioned this being emotional twice now, I would definitely consider this a romcom, and there were so many funny and lighthearted moments.
October 8, 2024
What a surprising read! The main characters are not what I usually look for in my books, but the writing captivated me and I ended up really loving these characters. I felt transported into Khin’s life. I could see her struggles, her stubbornness and I genuinely liked her character. Tyler was the definition of a golden boy. Not my usual type in a hero but I loved him even more for it. I enjoyed this unique storyline and I’m happy I gave this a try.
September 2, 2024
The synopsis to this book is a bit misleading. This is labeled a Rom Com, and while there is a small romantic element, it is a slow burn one. On top of that, I didn't really see comedy in this story. That is not to say I didn't like it, I just think expectations should be set at a different level to enjoy this one.
The plot centers on an up and coming journalist, Khin Hlaing, getting her big break, with a feature story on acting superstar, Tyler Tun. With the two connecting from day one, a great meet cute, I thought that was the beginning of a sweet romantic tale. But things take an interesting turn when Khin is attacked on his film set and in defending herself, a tragic accident occurs. For various reasons, all ridiculous, the two decide to cover it up. I didn't really get why Tyler took such risks for someone he barely knew, but when you think of the implications for his movie career, I sort of get it.
From this point forward, the two go to elaborate lengths to cover up the "crime" and find out why this man targeted Khin. I had my suspicions, which were later confirmed. What is interesting is the more I learned about the mystery man, the more I disliked him. Maybe he had what was coming to him?
There are a couple twists that change the direction of the story, including some poor communication between the couple to cause unnecessary drama. Are these two rising stars on different paths, or can they ultimately change their path and enjoy a future together? You'll have to read for yourself to find out.
*An ARC was received for an honest review.
For more reviews, visit
The plot centers on an up and coming journalist, Khin Hlaing, getting her big break, with a feature story on acting superstar, Tyler Tun. With the two connecting from day one, a great meet cute, I thought that was the beginning of a sweet romantic tale. But things take an interesting turn when Khin is attacked on his film set and in defending herself, a tragic accident occurs. For various reasons, all ridiculous, the two decide to cover it up. I didn't really get why Tyler took such risks for someone he barely knew, but when you think of the implications for his movie career, I sort of get it.
From this point forward, the two go to elaborate lengths to cover up the "crime" and find out why this man targeted Khin. I had my suspicions, which were later confirmed. What is interesting is the more I learned about the mystery man, the more I disliked him. Maybe he had what was coming to him?
There are a couple twists that change the direction of the story, including some poor communication between the couple to cause unnecessary drama. Are these two rising stars on different paths, or can they ultimately change their path and enjoy a future together? You'll have to read for yourself to find out.
*An ARC was received for an honest review.
For more reviews, visit
October 11, 2024
I went into this book expecting something smart, funny, irreverent or at the very least something fun.
Instead, this book was essentially a series of poorly thought-out decisions. Logic was tossed out the window far too often, and I did not find myself relating to the female character in any meaningful way. After all the good she’s supposedly done and the trauma she endured, I should feel something. I should be rooting for 100%. Yet I only felt detached.
The romance unfortunately fell a bit flat for me as well. I didn’t dislike Khin and Tyler, but I also didn’t love them together either. They’re like room-temperature water on a hot day. It’s fine, but it doesn’t feel like it quenches your thirst the same way as a tall cold glass of water would.
Basically, I finished the book with an over sense of meh�
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Griffin for providing me with an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Instead, this book was essentially a series of poorly thought-out decisions. Logic was tossed out the window far too often, and I did not find myself relating to the female character in any meaningful way. After all the good she’s supposedly done and the trauma she endured, I should feel something. I should be rooting for 100%. Yet I only felt detached.
The romance unfortunately fell a bit flat for me as well. I didn’t dislike Khin and Tyler, but I also didn’t love them together either. They’re like room-temperature water on a hot day. It’s fine, but it doesn’t feel like it quenches your thirst the same way as a tall cold glass of water would.
Basically, I finished the book with an over sense of meh�
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Griffin for providing me with an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
May 5, 2025
Better than I thought it'd be. Really cute.
February 3, 2025
2.5 stars.
Just, meh! 🫠
Just, meh! 🫠
dnf
March 1, 2025dnf because of boredom
March 14, 2025
I actually enjoyed this more than I thought I would! It was such a cute little rom com. It had me smiling and relating to quite a few things. Cute read! 💕
October 3, 2024
Wow! This book blew me away! Khin is a freelance journalist who is recently divorced after about one year of marriage. Vogue has reached out to her to do a celebrity profile on Tyler Tun. If she gets this right, she could get a full time job with Vogue in Singapore! The first night on the set, a strange man follows Khin and attacks her. Tyler steps in to help her, but things don’t end well. Now Tyler and Khin have a secret, and Khin needs to find out why this guy was targeting her. As they grow closer, Khin finds herself questioning her morals as a journalist. But everything is on the line, her life, her job, and Tyler’s trust.
When an author can build up the banter and the chemistry between two characters in such a way that when they finally have their first kiss, MY body tingles, that author has me as a reader FOR LIFE! Never have I read two characters that leapt off the page from the beginning and whom were perfect for each other right from the beginning. And while third act things are my most favorite, it made sense here and it was equally heartbreaking.
This whole book felt very unique to me, from the setting, to the personalities of the characters, to the plot� it was really just *chef’s kiss.* I loved all of the supporting characters, May was fantastic as Tyler’s best friend.
I do wish I would have gotten to see the real article that Khin wrote about Tyler, but I guess I can’t get everything I want haha. What a great way to start the month of October! A 5 star read!
When an author can build up the banter and the chemistry between two characters in such a way that when they finally have their first kiss, MY body tingles, that author has me as a reader FOR LIFE! Never have I read two characters that leapt off the page from the beginning and whom were perfect for each other right from the beginning. And while third act things are my most favorite, it made sense here and it was equally heartbreaking.
This whole book felt very unique to me, from the setting, to the personalities of the characters, to the plot� it was really just *chef’s kiss.* I loved all of the supporting characters, May was fantastic as Tyler’s best friend.
I do wish I would have gotten to see the real article that Khin wrote about Tyler, but I guess I can’t get everything I want haha. What a great way to start the month of October! A 5 star read!
December 10, 2024
I had to subtract at least one star for a MC who paid $400 for a pen.
October 8, 2024
This book was a cozy 5 stars for me. A rom-com with a murder, sign me up. I was hooked from start to finish.
Khin and Tyler’s chemistry through the whole book drew me in. I loved watching their relationship unfold with such a wild thing like murder bringing them together. Their banter was fun and cute.
Khin had me chuckling throughout the book with her awkward predicaments. The scene in Tyler’s trailer where she is trapped in the bathroom. Outside of her silliness, we got to watch her move through her own grief being newly divorced. You felt her emotions.
Tyler is the golden boy but because he earned the spot of stealing everyone’s hearts. With his type of fame trust can’t come easy, so it was sweet to watch him change.
I enjoyed both main MCs journey to finding themselves, and trying to live outside of societal expectations and pressures.
Pick this up if you want a cute, cozy rom-com with a side of murder.
Thank you MacMillian Audio and NetGalley for this advanced reader copy.
Khin and Tyler’s chemistry through the whole book drew me in. I loved watching their relationship unfold with such a wild thing like murder bringing them together. Their banter was fun and cute.
Khin had me chuckling throughout the book with her awkward predicaments. The scene in Tyler’s trailer where she is trapped in the bathroom. Outside of her silliness, we got to watch her move through her own grief being newly divorced. You felt her emotions.
Tyler is the golden boy but because he earned the spot of stealing everyone’s hearts. With his type of fame trust can’t come easy, so it was sweet to watch him change.
I enjoyed both main MCs journey to finding themselves, and trying to live outside of societal expectations and pressures.
Pick this up if you want a cute, cozy rom-com with a side of murder.
Thank you MacMillian Audio and NetGalley for this advanced reader copy.
Want to read
November 20, 2024This is giving me Finlay Donovan vibes and i WANTT
dnf
February 12, 2025Romances with a crime subplot never work for me
November 14, 2024
A chance at a big career dream job and the surreal task of shadowing a Hollywood A-List star for a story is nearly derailed by murder. How could I pass up a romcom mystery set in Myanmar with such an entertaining premise? New to me author, Pyae Moe Thet War tells a rollicking good story that crosses several genres.
Recently divorced and up and coming journalist, Khin Haymar gets the surprise of her life when her boss, the editor of Vogue Singapore hands her an assignment that everyone in the office covets- a chance for an exclusive with sizzling hot star actor, Tyler Tun. All expenses paid and two months to dig into his daily and private life while he’s local to be around family and working on his next film. She’ll nail that Singapore job if she can get some sort of a scoop and Clare, her editor, is pushing for it.
But, her plans derail from the first day of shooting. Tyler is her surprising ‘ride or die� partner when she murders her stalker in a totally unplanned and inadvertent way. From star power actor to a wonderful man who helps because he can, their time together is magical, but in the back of her mind looms her dream career and gathering up what she learns while Tyler is offering her his trust. The burden of Tyler or her career choice grows and what will he say when he learns of her duplicity?
I Did Something Bad was something of a gamble for me. I avoid stories that feature a journalist or reporter main character. I hate when the big conflict in a romance is a secret one or both are keeping particularly if the secret is a plan to exploit the other character’s private life for personal gain. And, this one did go there and I was not happy with that part of it.
However, I didn’t toss the book aside. I saw that there was much more going on with Khin. She’s lost her way and an expose on a celebrity is not her usual work. She thinks she needs to prove herself because of all the hits she’s taken on a personal level. I ended up wanting her to figure it out and do the right thing so I stayed in the story and cheered her on. Plus Tyler was fabulous guy and the pair of them were in a hilarious situation after the guy dies and they were trying to figure out what to do on the fly, so to speak. It was a celebrity romance at heart, too, so yes, there was great times on the set and seeing Tyler in his career as actor and what celebrity life was like for him.
And, let’s not forget that this is a gem if for no other reason than it’s a romcom set in Myanmar with Burmese culture and people as all the principle backdrop and cast of characters. I loved that the romance pair were Myanma and this is all written from a home town gal perspective so it was authentic and smooth all around.
After the fateful reveal of secrets and the end of their mad dash over murder and romance, this read like women’s fiction. Khin gets a good kick in the butt from her friends to help get things back on track. She had to fix herself before she could ever fix what she broke with Tyler.
In the end, I was well-satisfied. I hope Pyae Moe Thet War writes more of this fun romcom style. I gave the journalist after her scoop a try and I can recommend this part romcom romp, part celebrity romance, and part ‘finding herself� women’s fic a try.
I rec'd an eARC via NetGalley to read in exchange from an honest review.
My full review will post at Caffeinated Reviewer Nov 6, 2024.
Recently divorced and up and coming journalist, Khin Haymar gets the surprise of her life when her boss, the editor of Vogue Singapore hands her an assignment that everyone in the office covets- a chance for an exclusive with sizzling hot star actor, Tyler Tun. All expenses paid and two months to dig into his daily and private life while he’s local to be around family and working on his next film. She’ll nail that Singapore job if she can get some sort of a scoop and Clare, her editor, is pushing for it.
But, her plans derail from the first day of shooting. Tyler is her surprising ‘ride or die� partner when she murders her stalker in a totally unplanned and inadvertent way. From star power actor to a wonderful man who helps because he can, their time together is magical, but in the back of her mind looms her dream career and gathering up what she learns while Tyler is offering her his trust. The burden of Tyler or her career choice grows and what will he say when he learns of her duplicity?
I Did Something Bad was something of a gamble for me. I avoid stories that feature a journalist or reporter main character. I hate when the big conflict in a romance is a secret one or both are keeping particularly if the secret is a plan to exploit the other character’s private life for personal gain. And, this one did go there and I was not happy with that part of it.
However, I didn’t toss the book aside. I saw that there was much more going on with Khin. She’s lost her way and an expose on a celebrity is not her usual work. She thinks she needs to prove herself because of all the hits she’s taken on a personal level. I ended up wanting her to figure it out and do the right thing so I stayed in the story and cheered her on. Plus Tyler was fabulous guy and the pair of them were in a hilarious situation after the guy dies and they were trying to figure out what to do on the fly, so to speak. It was a celebrity romance at heart, too, so yes, there was great times on the set and seeing Tyler in his career as actor and what celebrity life was like for him.
And, let’s not forget that this is a gem if for no other reason than it’s a romcom set in Myanmar with Burmese culture and people as all the principle backdrop and cast of characters. I loved that the romance pair were Myanma and this is all written from a home town gal perspective so it was authentic and smooth all around.
After the fateful reveal of secrets and the end of their mad dash over murder and romance, this read like women’s fiction. Khin gets a good kick in the butt from her friends to help get things back on track. She had to fix herself before she could ever fix what she broke with Tyler.
In the end, I was well-satisfied. I hope Pyae Moe Thet War writes more of this fun romcom style. I gave the journalist after her scoop a try and I can recommend this part romcom romp, part celebrity romance, and part ‘finding herself� women’s fic a try.
I rec'd an eARC via NetGalley to read in exchange from an honest review.
My full review will post at Caffeinated Reviewer Nov 6, 2024.
March 17, 2025
Here it comes, the first 1-star rating of the year.
The only positive thing I can say about this book is: it had an interesting enough premise that I was willing to give it a try and it’s set in a unique location. After finishing I can only say this; I now allow myself to DNF books. But I wanted to finish it, so I felt justified blasting it.
I felt like nothing worked. The set up was like watching the show “Pretty Little Liars� all over again, where they start out innocent and should’ve just gone to the cops and it would all be over. But instead, they try to cover it up and by doing so, actually incriminate themselves. Self-defense isn’t a crime, but covering it up is. It was just frustrating reading their motivation for how they choose to act.
Tyler didn’t come across as a believable huge celebrity and I couldn’t see why someone of that caliber would accept a random journalist shadowing him for two months.
Khin just comes across as EXTREMLY unpleasant and annoying. She snaps at everyone that tries to help her. The characters even point out that she always picks a fight to avoid asking for help. It’s all her bad decisions and faulty logic that’s pretty much sets up the entire book.
So I didn’t connect with either story or characters, and the only humor or comedic relief that I got were tired pop-culture references, like Legally Blonde or SUV. And I loathe pop-culture references, they feel stale and outdated pretty much immediately.
Before the story starts, Khin has written an article about an underground abortion clinic that supposedly everyone in the entire world has conveniently read. But then everyone is so shocked that the journalist they allowed to shadow them for two months is writing an article. They confess all their secrets and desires, but if she’s thinking of including it in the article, she has betrayed their trust and fucked up. Once again, these supposedly a-list celebrities doesn’t come across as believable, they should be used to paparazzi and everyone looking for the next big scoop, they should tread carefully with all media persons. They pretty much starts doing it for the start, so it wasn’t like Khin became a part of the group and they forgot.
And every time I read a book that features a journalist and the author includes some of their writing, it’s always horrendous. The article that Khin writes in the end is atrocious. I refuse to believe that this is the writing that she also put in her other works that had everyone raving.
The mystery in the end turns out to be extremely convenient and anticlimactic. And they both gave up their careers, the happy ending come across as “and then the couple got together and lived happily ever after�, which is cliché and BORING. A disappointing story leading up to an even more disappointing end.
The only positive thing I can say about this book is: it had an interesting enough premise that I was willing to give it a try and it’s set in a unique location. After finishing I can only say this; I now allow myself to DNF books. But I wanted to finish it, so I felt justified blasting it.
I felt like nothing worked. The set up was like watching the show “Pretty Little Liars� all over again, where they start out innocent and should’ve just gone to the cops and it would all be over. But instead, they try to cover it up and by doing so, actually incriminate themselves. Self-defense isn’t a crime, but covering it up is. It was just frustrating reading their motivation for how they choose to act.
Tyler didn’t come across as a believable huge celebrity and I couldn’t see why someone of that caliber would accept a random journalist shadowing him for two months.
Khin just comes across as EXTREMLY unpleasant and annoying. She snaps at everyone that tries to help her. The characters even point out that she always picks a fight to avoid asking for help. It’s all her bad decisions and faulty logic that’s pretty much sets up the entire book.
So I didn’t connect with either story or characters, and the only humor or comedic relief that I got were tired pop-culture references, like Legally Blonde or SUV. And I loathe pop-culture references, they feel stale and outdated pretty much immediately.
Before the story starts, Khin has written an article about an underground abortion clinic that supposedly everyone in the entire world has conveniently read. But then everyone is so shocked that the journalist they allowed to shadow them for two months is writing an article. They confess all their secrets and desires, but if she’s thinking of including it in the article, she has betrayed their trust and fucked up. Once again, these supposedly a-list celebrities doesn’t come across as believable, they should be used to paparazzi and everyone looking for the next big scoop, they should tread carefully with all media persons. They pretty much starts doing it for the start, so it wasn’t like Khin became a part of the group and they forgot.
And every time I read a book that features a journalist and the author includes some of their writing, it’s always horrendous. The article that Khin writes in the end is atrocious. I refuse to believe that this is the writing that she also put in her other works that had everyone raving.
The mystery in the end turns out to be extremely convenient and anticlimactic. And they both gave up their careers, the happy ending come across as “and then the couple got together and lived happily ever after�, which is cliché and BORING. A disappointing story leading up to an even more disappointing end.
February 16, 2025
I have never read a book set in Myanmar let alone against the backdrop of filming a movie, and that is just two of the things that made by so much fun. I had no idea how I would feel about a murder mixed with a romcom, but in this case it totally hit. There is plenty of action and humor, along with what ends up being a heartfelt romance and a woman figuring out what she wants to do with the rest of her life. I loved that I got to learn about the Myanmar culture though I clearly have much more to learn, and this was such a bingey read that I didn’t want to put down. I’m kicking myself for putting this one off for so long and it surprises me to know it’s a debut because it certainly didn’t read like one.
I also loved I Did Something Bad on audio and thought Jacqui Bardelang crushed the narration. She was such an easy voice to listen to and it felt like she put her heart into it. I could listen to her accent for ages as well, and she made this a joy to listen to. The romance itself was a nice slow burn and with the added pressure of covering up a murder, there is a lot of tension! Khin and Tyler are not the kind of heroes/love interests I would expect but I loved them both and I felt transported completely into their world thanks to the fantastic writing.
Read this if you are looking for a diverse romance, Swiftie references, and a nice balance between lighter themes and darker ones.
I received a complimentary copy and advance listening copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I also loved I Did Something Bad on audio and thought Jacqui Bardelang crushed the narration. She was such an easy voice to listen to and it felt like she put her heart into it. I could listen to her accent for ages as well, and she made this a joy to listen to. The romance itself was a nice slow burn and with the added pressure of covering up a murder, there is a lot of tension! Khin and Tyler are not the kind of heroes/love interests I would expect but I loved them both and I felt transported completely into their world thanks to the fantastic writing.
Read this if you are looking for a diverse romance, Swiftie references, and a nice balance between lighter themes and darker ones.
I received a complimentary copy and advance listening copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
October 6, 2024
A fantastic romantic suspense debut that features two Asian MCs, Kim, a journalist assigned to write a story about an up and coming famous movie star, Tyler Tun, as he shoots a romcom in Myanmar. When Kim is assaulted one night and accidentally kills a man in self defence, she and Tyler get caught up in a lie, trying to stay out of prison while simultaneously falling in love. Great on audio and perfect for fans of authors like Tara Lush or Mia P. Manansala. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital and audio copy in exchange for my honest review. I really enjoyed this one and look forward to reading more by this author in the future!!
October 7, 2024
I love this new trend of combining contemporary romance with murder - not "romantic suspense" but where romance is more prominent and there is a lighter tone to it. That's what this book was and I really enjoyed it! I appreciated the Myanmar representation as this is not something I've read before. And of course, the "celebrity/normie" trope is a favorite. Khin and Tyler had great chemistry, and I loved the slow burn and the building of trust between them under such heightened circumstances.
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for my complimentary ARC. All opinions are my own.
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for my complimentary ARC. All opinions are my own.
August 8, 2024
A great combination of romance, mystery, and relationships. How far would you go? I enjoyed the characters and loved the character's growth throughout the story. I would recommend this book highly, and it has many genres to reach most readers.
September 22, 2024
4.5⭐️ Thank you to ŷ, St. Martin’s Griffin Publishing, and Pyae Moe Thet War for the ARC of this book! This was such a fun rom-com with so many great themes throughout the book. I can’t wait to read more from this author! I Did Something Bad is out on October 8th!
March 29, 2025
Loved the end though
September 13, 2024
Khin is a freelance journalist whose next big assignment is following movie star Tyler Tun. When a man unexpectedly attacks Khin, Tyler is there to save the day. Now they must trust each other, or use their new found friendship to further themselves .
I found I Did Something Bad an absolutely hilarious and adorable rom-com. I love a little dark humor, and this delivered on that. Was it far fetched? Absolutely! But I think that is part of the charm. This isn’t a super spicy book if you are looking for that, but the tension between Khin and Tyler was perfection. I loved their friendship and their growth throughout. Khin learning to trust again was so relatable. I definitely recommend this one and it’s out October 8th, 2024
Thank you @netgalley and St Martins Press for the opportunity to read this book.
I found I Did Something Bad an absolutely hilarious and adorable rom-com. I love a little dark humor, and this delivered on that. Was it far fetched? Absolutely! But I think that is part of the charm. This isn’t a super spicy book if you are looking for that, but the tension between Khin and Tyler was perfection. I loved their friendship and their growth throughout. Khin learning to trust again was so relatable. I definitely recommend this one and it’s out October 8th, 2024
Thank you @netgalley and St Martins Press for the opportunity to read this book.
January 5, 2025
This was given to me as a gift, with a warning that it while it will be fluff, it's by a Myanmar writer and set in that country, so that was the selling point. And if the writer had actually included any information about the country, culture, history, current events, ANYTHING, it would have made up for its saccharine Hollywood movie star rom-com plot and a murder storyline so flimsy that even I, a person who never solves these things, could see it a mile away. But I know as much - little - about Myanmar after finishing this book as I did before starting it. This is all the more ironic since the characters go on and on about how important representation is; if only the writer managed to represent her birthplace in the book. The writing is ok, although the gross overuse of ellipses, parentheses, and unnecessary italics to emphasize words became grating in very short order. This book was as deep as Carrie Bradshaw's musings in Sex and the City, updated for the next generation. And the male love interest is of course perfect, with no flaws in sight. Mostly, though, I'm gobsmacked that the writer thought it was enough to simply say the characters were Myanmar without any elaboration of this identity and culture and that the editor went along with it.
June 20, 2024
Overall, this book was a decent debut novel. The story had its ups and downs, and while I found Khin's character annoying at times, I couldn't understand her persistent distrust of Tyler. Despite him being an actor, he didn't seem to give her any reason to mistrust him. Her flip-flopping between trusting only her two friends and then not trusting anyone else felt inconsistent and detracted from the story's believability .
Despite these issues, I found myself staying up late trying to unravel the ending. Although I rolled my eyes at parts of it, the book held my interest overall.
Thanks for the ARC !
Despite these issues, I found myself staying up late trying to unravel the ending. Although I rolled my eyes at parts of it, the book held my interest overall.
Thanks for the ARC !
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